Helloworld has appointed a new executive general manager for Stella NZ, ahead of the New Zealand launch of the Helloworld brand in the new year.
Simon Mckearney, most recently managing director of Flight Centre Corporate, replaces Greg Leighton who departs the role after eight years.
The appointment comes as the agency gears up to roll-out the Helloworld brand across NZ, consolidating Harvey World Travel and United Travel brands with ten additional retail stores purchased from Air New Zealand.
Acting chief executive Jenny Mcdonald describing the NZ launch of the brand as a “key milestone” in the evolution of the business.
“In Simon, we have an executive with the leadership talent and the diversity of business experience to deliver value to our agents, suppliers and our shareholders while executive our transformational strategy,” she said.
“I look forward to working with him in what is an important and exciting period for our company.”
Meanwhile, Mckearney described his appointment as “an honour”.
“I look forward to leading the Stella team and working closely with the board, the senior management team and all of our agents and suppliers to execute our transformation process,” he said.
“I am confident that these efforts will deliver immediate benefits and enhanced relationships for our agents, suppliers and consumers, and better position The Stella Group for more profitable growth.”
The NZ roll-out hit a hurdle last month when Helloworld confirmed 36 United Travel agencies would not be crossing over to the new brand. However, the company insisted the departure would not materially affect earnings.
